Junior Design Awards 2023 / Toy Awards 2023 / 19 September 2023

Best Eco Toy Design | Junior Design Awards 2023

Junior Magazine Junior Design Awards 2023 Best Eco Toy Design | Junior Design Awards 2023

Who:Candylab

What:Candylab Candyvans

Why:

These incredibly cute food trucks featuring a different, moreish food on every roof were hugely popular with our judges who loved these simply crafted, beechwood toys that are just begging to be collected and displayed when they’re not being enthusiastically played with.

The panel thought the craftsmanship was superb and loved the subtle mid-century aesthetic.

These beautifully made trucks were the talk of the toy section. Everyone wanted to take them home! I have admired this brand for a long time so its great to finally see it receive a Junior Design Award

Bonita Turner, Editor of Junior

Gorgeous!

Emma Tunbridge, Children’s fashion photographer, @emmatunbridge

My daughter loves ice-cream and cupcakes so she would absolutely love these.

Sarah-Jane Mee, Sky News presenter and TV personality, @skysarahjane

Who:PlanToys

What:PlanToys Sailing Boat Walrus

Why:

This beautifully made, simple sailing boat featuring a very appealing Walrus passenger really charmed our judges who loved the pared-back design and lovely muted colours. This little boat can be used for water play, whether it be in a bath or a paddling pool, and is great for fostering hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills.

The panel were excited to hear that this toy is sustainably made in Thailand using the leftover sawdust from chemical-free rubberwood, non-formaldehyde glue, organic pigments and water-based dyes, making it a planet-friendly option that Mr. Walrus would truly appreciate.

Who wouldn’t want this sweet little Walrus to accompany them on bathtime adventures? This toy looks just as cute in and out of the tub but I love the fact that it floats so well.

Bonita Turner, Editor of Junior

This would make such a lovely gift for a child, providing a sustainable alternative to the usual plastic bath toy offering.

Eleonore Crompton, Deputy Editor, Junior

Who:The Tea Club

What:Eco-friendly wooden toys

Why:

These eye-catching wooden toys were constantly being reached for by our judges who loved the smooth, tactile quality of these beautifully considered pieces that felt like a fresh interpretation of traditional wooden toys.

With abstract shapes as well as more recognisable ones, like sweet little pretzels, the JDA panel felt these toys would stimulate imaginations and provide plenty of opportunity for role play. A lovely eco-conscious range of toys that can be passed down through generations.

The endless possibilities for creative play presented by these toys is really exciting. The quality of the finish is extraordinary!

Bonita Turner, Editor of Junior

I did a double take when I saw the tray of cubes, which I genuinely thought were slabs of chocolate. Beautiful wooden toys that kids will love playing with and the teething rings look fab for little ones.

Eleonore Crompton, Deputy Editor, Junior